The kitchen is the heart of the home, but even the best intentions can lead to dated design choices. As we move into 2026, it’s time to reevaluate what truly makes a kitchen timeless, functional, and stylish. Here are the kitchen trends to skip this year and modern alternatives that elevate your space without sacrificing practicality.

Or if you already know what you’re looking for, get started with our design team.

1. All-White Kitchens (That Lack Contrast)

All-white kitchens had a long run, but sterile, monochromatic palettes can feel cold and uninspired in 2026. Instead of going completely white, today’s designers are adding depth with earthy tones, wood accents, and contrasting cabinetry.

Try This Instead: Mix soft whites or warm greiges with wood grain base cabinets or a bold navy or forest green island. This adds dimension while still maintaining a bright and clean aesthetic.

2. Overdone Farmhouse Style

While cozy and charming, the farmhouse look has become oversaturated. Shiplap walls and distressed finishes are being replaced by cleaner lines and more versatile design.

Try This Instead: Incorporate subtle rustic elements like matte black hardware, open shelving in moderation, or a reclaimed wood hood. Blend these with transitional or modern cabinet styles for balance.

3. Open Shelving Overload

Open shelving can look gorgeous when perfectly styled, but it isn’t always practical. Dust, clutter, and limited storage make it a trend to avoid in excess.

Try This Instead: Use open shelves sparingly to showcase a few beautiful pieces, and rely on closed cabinetry to keep things clean and organized. Opt for glass-front cabinets for a hybrid solution.

4. Overly Trendy Cabinet Colors

Cabinet colors like millennial pink or high-gloss neons were fun while they lasted, but they’re rarely long-term winners. These choices can date your kitchen quickly.

Try This Instead: Stick with timeless hues that still feel fresh: mushroom, sage green, matte black, or soft taupe. These shades pair well with a variety of countertops and backsplash materials.

5. Basic Subway Tile

Subway tile will always be a classic, but the basic white 3×6 layout has become a bit too expected.

Try This Instead: Experiment with texture, color, or layout. Zellige tiles, vertical stacks, herringbone patterns, or colored grout can breathe new life into this staple.

6. Overly Ornate Cabinet Details

Heavy molding, raised panel doors, and ornate corbels feel out of sync with today’s streamlined kitchens. While traditional design still has a place, it’s getting a modern refresh.

Try This Instead: Choose shaker-style or slab-front cabinets for a cleaner look. Add interest through texture, finish, or hardware instead of fussy trim.

7. Trend-Hopping Without a Plan

Following every hot trend can lead to a disjointed, cluttered kitchen. It’s better to invest in a cohesive style that reflects your taste and how you use your space.

Try This Instead: Choose 1–2 trends to incorporate, and let your overall vision guide your decisions. Not sure where to start? Get expert help with our 100% Free Kitchen Design Service.

Bring Your Kitchen Into 2026

At RTA Cabinet Store, we believe in creating kitchens that are both stylish and functional. Skip the fleeting fads and invest in design choices that stand the test of time. Whether you’re updating a few features or starting from scratch, our expert designers are here to help.

Ready to get started? Explore our selection of high-quality, quick-ship cabinets then order some samples to get started on bringing your vision to life.

A Note on Kitchen Hardware Trends to Avoid

In 2026 you should definitely say yes to hardware (knobs and pulls on the cabinets) but there are some things to avoid as well.

Say no to:

• Matte black color
• Industrial style
• Too basic a design
• High sheen finish

Matte black has had its day. Shift your focus to metallics for your kitchen hardware. As stated previously, whatever metallic suits your tastes and your design are a go. You can even mix and match. Try to blend your choices by sticking to either one color with different finishes or different colors with the same finishes.

Industrial style has its place, but its not the kitchen in 2026. Hardware can be a sort of jewelry to the kitchen so this is your moment to make a statement. Overly industrial looks can take over the aesthetic and overpower other elements of the design.

Likewise, too basic a design can drag down the look and feel of the kitchen. Look to your hardware as an opportunity to add some personality to the space.

High polish finishes are a no-go in 2026 with brushed and satin the most popular choices. No matter what color hardware you choose, a muted sheen is your best bet for the kitchen.